(Gib. 2007 Reading) Helpful Grandmothers in Rural Ethiopia: Study of Kin Effects on Child Survival and Growth

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, findings, and implications from the study examining the role of grandmothers and kin support in child survival and growth in rural Ethiopia.

What is the main focus of the study on kin support in rural Ethiopia?

The study examines the effects of kin, particularly grandmothers, on child mortality and growth patterns in a rural Ethiopian community.

What theories are explored in the study regarding kin support?

Kin selection and parental investment theories, which suggest individuals increase their inclusive fitness by supporting their relatives.

What demographic and anthropometric data were collected in the study?

Data on child height, weight, mortality rates, and kin presence and activities were collected from four villages.

What positive effect do grandmothers have on child survival?

Grandmothers, especially maternal grandmothers, positively impact child survival rates.

How does the presence of maternal grandmothers specifically influence child height?

Maternal grandmothers have a significant beneficial effect on the height of children.

What is the significance of matrilocal postmarital residence for child survival?

Matrilocal residence is associated with improved child survival despite children being smaller in size.

Why might children in matrilocal households be smaller?

Possible reasons include wealth effects, sibling competition, or higher survival of smaller infants.

What were the observed effects of postmarital residence patterns?

Patrilocal and matrilocal residence patterns resulted in different access to maternal and paternal kin.

What kinds of tasks did grandmothers typically engage in according to the study?

Grandmothers often participated in heavy domestic tasks rather than direct childcare.

What key factor predicts child mortality among grandparental involvement?

The survival status of maternal grandmothers was a significant predictor of a child’s likelihood of survival.

How did grandmothers contribute differently in matrilocal versus patrilocal settings?

Maternal grandmothers were more commonly present and engaged in tasks in matrilocal households.

What percentage of children experienced stunted growth in the study population?

49.6% of children were classified as seriously stunted for their age.

What discrepancy was found in child nutritional status between matrilocal and patrilocal households?

Children in matrilocal households had higher survival rates but were shorter on average than those in patrilocal households.

What historical evidence supports the role of maternal grandmothers in child well-being?

Studies in various cultures have shown that maternal grandmothers often have a greater impact on child survival than paternal relatives.

What implications does the study suggest for international development policies regarding child health?

Understanding kin support can inform policies aimed at improving child health and adapting to changing family structures.